Flats fishing heats up in the summer months here in the Florida Keys. There really is no better time to go flats fishing than June – October here in the smiling islands. The fishing is not the only thing that heats up, so do the daily temps making the islands pretty warm. Light East and Southeast winds really help take the edge off the heat. Stay hydrated and keep focused, don’t miss your shot!
Pretty much anywhere you go in the Florida Keys will provide some great shallow water sight fishing on the flats. The upper keys has Islamorada and Key Largo with more species in the shallows that can be targeted. snook and redfish are definitely on the list. However water temps can affect the fishing as the sun goes high throughout the day. The middle Keys such as Marathon starts to get a good amount of flow keeping things freshened up throughout the day and also allows easy access to the Lower Keys flats fishing where the grand slam consists of tarpon, permit and bonefish. Key West flats fishing is very unique with all the flow that comes from the Atlantic and Gulf of America. With so much area to cover Key West flats fishing is great in the summer for the Key West grand slam and access to the Marquesas Keys fishing.
Bonefishing The Flats
Florida Keys Bonefishing was practically made famous here. A world class destination for these amazing sport fish. The lower Keys and Key West have become the best destination for these fish and this summer so far we are seeing them everywhere. Our flats are in amazing condition and the fish are super happy.
Capt. Steven Lamp a veteran bonefishing guide out of Key West says
“We are seeing more bonefish on the flats that I have seen in my 30 year career here in Key West”.
Capt. Chris Duncan a veteran flats fishing guide echoes the same in the Lower Keys bonefishing scene.
“I am seeing bonefish in more places than ever. The fish are eating well for my fly fishermen and spin fishermen and super happy”.
With the warmer temps, lighter winds and crystal clear waters sight fishing the flats is an incredible sport fishing adventure. Crowds are light room rates are lower and some of the area we fish there isn’t another boat for miles. Truly a sport fishing dream.
A Day Of Flats Fishing
Typically a flats fishing guide will take off pretty early in the morning this time of the year. It is cooler and this is a great time to target our local tarpon, snook or redfish. After the sun gets higher, it’s time to get up on the flats in the shallows to look for permit and bonefish. All great targets for the spin fishing enthusiast or fly fisherman.
Most of our flats fishing and backcountry fishing guides will offer a 4, 6 or 8 hour adventure. The boats they use will vary from 17ft traditional flats fishing skiffs up to 24 ft bay boats with state of the art trolling motors and shallow capabilities. Both ways are very popular Keys wide and excellent choices based on individual needs. The bay boats can cary up to 2 persons whereas the flats skiffs only 2.
Pro Tips For Flats Fishing
- Talk to your flats fishing guide. Tell them what you are looking for in a day of fishing. Species, Tackle choices (Fly Or Spin fishing), What is provided.
- Hydrate. Especially in the summer.
- Wear sun clothes that fit loosely and cover the body. Head covers highly recommended.
- If you have limited balance or over 2 anglers look into bay boats for your experience.
Flats Fishing is heating up.. Jump into the fire and start scratching at that bucket list.
